Children need to be kept constantly occupied. And as much as it is fun to engage and play with them, it does drain you after a point. Then the most convenient thing to do is to…engross them in a screen. Which, of course, is disastrous for their young eyes and yet as a 24/7 parent, there are times when you must resort to just that.

What if there were ways you could get yourself some quiet and ensure your child isn’t glued to the screen—but instead, is engaged in an activity that is creative, builds cognitive skills and acquaints them with Indian culture and tradition? Yes, indeed, now you can engage your kids in an activity while you enjoy some much-needed quiet time without feeling guilty about it. We have the perfect solution(s) for you. We’re here with a curated list of affordable kits and activities you can get for your toddler or gift someone with a toddler you know is creating havoc in their house.

Often overlooked, Indian tribal and native art has great potential to foster creativity in young, developing minds. It introduces them to the world of colour, geometric shapes and designs while also building an understanding of culture and tradition. Pattern recognition and visual learning is crucial for development, which can now be inculcated without much additional effort or burning a hole in your pocket. Keep reading and discover creative Indian Art gifts for kids (and curious adults).

DIY Origami Art Kit

Price: ₹ 299

Age Range: 6 and above

Benefits: Educational, Calming, Skill-building

Contents: A pack of coloured origami papers, A black marker, A set of sketch pens, An instruction leaflet, 3 Rubber Bands.

Art kits by Rooftop are designed for kids above 5 years, with child-friendly tools and activities that help build motor skills to do more than keep them engaged. These are good for toddlers who have never been exposed to much of any art, so that they get accustomed to it. A simple art kit like this familiarizes them with creativity and art in general, which can open up a world of possibilities for their creative pursuits. From exciting card games to learning specific Indian art forms - the world is their oyster.

Rooftop’s Origami Art Kit is perfect for kids who display an affinity towards creativity which could include a range of behavioural tendencies anywhere from a fascination with objects to rolling paper into balls or dissecting dolls. Put that destructive streak to good use and maybe they’ll end up as successful artists—give them a chance. This kit is ideal for ages 6 and above, since it requires some level of structure and understanding, to be able to use paper and craft things out of it. The instruction manual has two to three sample origami step-by-step guides, you can search up more online and go for it (the kids–at least those below the age 9 would require assistance). Read further for options not requiring assistance.

The Adventure Books Series (Elementary)

Price: ₹ 999

Age Range: 5 and above

Benefits: Educational, Calming, Skill-building

The elementary level of the Adventure Book series is especially designed to introduce young learners to the rich world of Indian Art. These interactive DIY artbooks provide a proper guiding hand that takes them through the world of Indian art step by step. Available in a variety of Indian folk and tribal art forms, namely Gond, Pichwai, Cheriyal, Warli, Mata ni Pachedi and Phad art - these art books are a gateway to the world of Indian art.. Made with bright illustrations and high quality pages - one can quickly jump to the Essential and Expert levels of the Artventure series for a more detailed understanding of the artforms.

Foam Clay Play Art Kit

Price: ₹ 499

Age Range: 6 and above

Benefits: Educational, Calming, Skill-building

Contents: Tools (3 pieces), Clay (12 packets), A Mirror, An Easel Stand, A Pack of Mirror Work, A Tube of Glue, A Coaster, An Instruction Leaflet.

Which kid doesn’t love clay? Even teens and adults have fun playing with these mouldable delights. So what better way to introduce your kid to some creativity and art than to get them this Foam Clay Kit by Rooftop.

Each art kit comes with a set of twelve multi-coloured clay packs and an instruction manual full of creative ideas to draw inspiration from. The easel and mirror are added elements to broaden the scope of clay-playing with newer ways of creating and decorating. They don’t say the first step to sculpting and pottery is childhood clay playing for nothing! This is perfect, since you can let the child do their own thing with it. Of course, doing it with them enhances the experience—for both of you.

FATAC Card Game

Price: ₹ 499

Age Range: 3 and above

Benefits: Educational, Calming, Skill-building

Contents: A pack of coloured origami papers, A black marker, A set of sketch pens, An instruction leaflet, 3 Rubber Bands.

FATAC is not just a card game—it’s a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage and a thrilling multi-game adventure. This innovative 3-in-1 card game seamlessly combines the excitement of SNAP, the challenge of a memory game, and slap dash, offering endless fun and engagement for players of all ages. The cards feature Indian Arts like Bhil, Gond and Phad, with simple yet fun games that would be a treat for both you and the child. It's a game that doesn't just make for a fun activity for the entire family, it is also helps improve memory, build focus and is a great a way to get kids acquainted with Indian art and learn more about it.

DIY Rock Painting Art Kit

Price: ₹ 799

Age Range: 6 and above

Benefits: Educational, Calming, Skill-building

Contents: 2 Smooth Rocks, A Set of Dot Mandala Tools, A Set of Paints, A Palette, A Set of Brushes, A Paper Cup, A Pack of Googly Eyes, A Tube of Glue, 2 Paper Plates, An Instruction Leaflet.

Imagine turning a rock into wonderful animated creatures with googly eyes or paint it with patterns to resemble a galaxy! With this budget-friendly craft kit, all you need is a bit of creativity to make it happen! The best part about this Rock Painting Kit is that it is not limited to or dependent on the resources of the kit alone - it relies on your imagination! The Dot Mandala Tools included in the kit offer a variety of design options and come in various sizes. It’s messy, it’s cute, it’s fun. Whether it’s a beach day out or an indoor painting session—these rock painting kits will rock.

Special Combo: Creator’s Corner Gift Set

Price: ₹ 1109

Age Range: 5 and above

Benefits: Save up to 400

If you're looking for a fun art gift that packs a punch of creativity, but is still in your budget - this combo is exactly what you need. This special Creator’s Corner Gift set is a steal deal as it includes exciting goodies that even grown ups can enjoy—the folk cards, which are postcards with tribal art motifs and patterns which can be coloured. Then, something thats a kids favourite — a DIY Art Kit, and one FATAC Cards pack which is great for all ages. Combo sets like these are perfect for an artistic family, providing an Indian art activity for each member, while saving the money and time required to buy three different products.

Bring Indian Art to your home, enliven it with culture, tradition, and give your kids the upbringing they deserve. The unique and interactive gifts listed above are just right for a childhood well-spent, because not only are they fun and exciting, but they also help inculcate artistic affinities from a young age without being too heavy on the pocket. Now, finally, you won’t have to worry too much about your child’s formative years being spent in front of a screen.